‘The Voice’ playoffs begin: recap

The Voice has completed all of the battle rounds and is now headed into the playoff rounds. This is how the playoff rounds will work - each vocalist will take the stage representing their team. After they all perform, the coach will be left to choose three finalists to move to the live shows, sending two vocalists home.

Kicking off the night was Audra McLaughlin from Team Blake. McLaughlin performed “A Broken Wing” by Martina McBride. Usher said that from the moment she took the stage it was recognized that she had a powerful voice. Shakira added that it was a beautiful performance but what hit her the most was the emotion behind the song. Levine commented by saying he thinks McLaughlin is spectacular. Coach Shelton said that McLaughlin keeps getting better when she takes the stage.

Next up was Ryan Whyte Maloney representing Team Blake. He decided to sing “Second Chance” by Shinedown. Usher started off the comments by saying that Maloney had a comparable vocal range to Levine. Levine added that Maloney has really grown as an artist and that he has the most professional moments combined with rough edges. Shelton said that with this performance, the bar has once again been set high and he has a hard decision ahead of him.

Next up was Jake Worthington, who is back for a second time at victory on The Voice. Worthington decided to take on a Jake Owen classic “Anywhere With You.” Shakira said that she thinks Worthington is a star. Usher added that Worthington has to believe that he is great or else no one will. Levine added that he loved the performance. Shelton added that he really believes in country but he has two country artists to choose from.

The final performance of the night went to Sisaundra Lewis and she took on “New York State of Mind” by Billy Joel. Usher said that he loved her voice and Levine added that he couldn’t embrace the fact that Lewis is on Team Blake. Usher also added that she deserves an amazing career. Shakira asked Lewis if she was aware of the voice that she has because it leaves her speechless. Shelton added that Lewis has made him rethink coaching and that he talks to Lewis with his heart not his mind when it comes to coaching.

It all came down to Shelton to decide who would advance to the live shows. After much deliberation he moved forward Sisaundra Lewis, Audra McLaughlin and Jake Worthington.